These Honey BBQ Crockpot Meatballs are a tasty treat! They’re sweet, sticky, and super easy to make. Just toss meatballs in your crockpot with honey and BBQ sauce, and let them cook while you relax.
These meatballs are perfect for parties or game days. Trust me, they disappear fast! I like to serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking—because who doesn’t love finger food? 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: You can use ground beef, pork, or a mix of both for richer flavor. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken ground meat works well too. Just remember that the cooking time may vary slightly.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are great, but you can swap them for panko for extra crunch. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed oats.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice depth to the meatballs. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You can also use pecorino or feta cheese as alternatives.
BBQ Sauce: Feel free to use any BBQ sauce you love or make a homemade version. For a different twist, try teriyaki sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor.
Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used instead of honey if you’re vegan or if honey is unavailable. They add a distinct sweetness of their own.
How Do You Make Sure Your Meatballs Stay Juicy?
Keeping meatballs juicy is important for great flavor and texture. There are a few tricks you can try:
- Don’t overmix the ingredients; just combine them until mixed. Overmixing can make the meat tough.
- Add a little moisture, like milk or broth, to the mixture if it feels too dry.
- Use the right amount of binding ingredients, like eggs and breadcrumbs, to keep them from falling apart.
- Cooking them slowly in the crockpot helps keep them tender since they steam in the sauce.
Lastly, remember to shape the meatballs gently. Rushing them can lead to tough results. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Honey BBQ Crockpot Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef or pork (or a combination)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Honey BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll let your crockpot do the work! Depending on your cooking option, you’ll need to plan for 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low. So, set it up in the morning and come home to a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat (beef, pork, or both), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. Don’t over-mix; just make sure everything is evenly distributed!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Take a small amount of the meat mixture and shape it into a meatball about 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a plate and continue until you’ve used all the mixture. This should make about 20-25 meatballs, depending on size!
3. Make the Honey BBQ Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey until smooth and well combined. This sweet and tangy sauce is what makes your meatballs extra special!
4. Combine in the Crockpot:
Now, place all the meatballs into the crockpot in a single layer if possible. Pour the honey BBQ sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are all generously coated. It’s okay if they get a little messy; the sauce will soak in beautifully!
5. Cook the Meatballs:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F and are no longer pink inside. They will soak up that delicious sauce while cooking!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once they are cooked, gently stir the meatballs in the sauce to coat them nicely. Serve them warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Enjoy your mouthwatering Honey BBQ Crockpot Meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef or pork! Just be aware that these meats may result in a slightly different texture and flavor. You may also want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the taste, as they are milder than red meats.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free meatballs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour as a substitute. Check the BBQ sauce for gluten-free labeling as well, as many sauces contain wheat. With these adjustments, you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version!
Can I Freeze Meatballs for Later Use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatballs before adding sauce. Simply shape the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen in the crockpot; just add an extra hour to the cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you want to keep the meatballs moist, add a splash of water or additional BBQ sauce while reheating.
